Customizable light-up device

ABSTRACT

An apparatus that includes a housing containing a motor that is electrically connected to a power source. An enclosed motorized assembly is connected to the housing and contains secure points located in an outer surface thereof and LEDs therein. An object is affixed to the motorized assembly and contains insertion points. A slip ring is secured around a motor shaft of the motor and electrically connects to a first conductive plate that is secured within the housing. The first conductive plate is further electrically connected to the LEDs. A second conductive plate is electrically connected to the motor shaft and the LEDs. A plurality of extension elements include a first and second end, wherein the first end is secured to the secure points and the plurality of extension elements radiate or transmit light from the LEDs.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part application of and claimspriority to application Ser. No. 16/124,979, filed on Sep. 7, 2018,which is a continuation-in-part of and claims priority to applicationSer. No. 14/684,479, filed on Apr. 13, 2015.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present device relates to the field of entertainment devices, moreparticularly, to the field of entertainment devices that utilizeelectronics, lighting, location, and communication system(s).

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There is a need for devices that electronically rotate and utilizeelectronics, lighting, location, and communication systems to activatecertain electronic features of the device when coming into closeproximity with a sender.

In addition, electronic devices that rotate present safety risks tousers. Accordingly, there is also a need for integration of a safetymechanism in these devices, such as a slip-clutch, that automaticallystops the rotating portion of the device upon touch of a user. Morespecifically, what is needed is a slip clutch that allows the device tohave the same motor with the same acceleration and top speed, yet stilllimit the maximum torque applied to the rotating portion of the device.This ensures that the motor is protected from overheating in the eventof a stalled or stopped rotating portion.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There is disclosed an apparatus including a housing that contains amotor, which is electrically connected to a power source, an enclosedmotorized assembly connected to the housing and containing secure pointslocated in an outer surface thereof and LEDs therein, a slip ringsecured around a motor shaft of the motor, a first conductive plateelectrically connected to the slip ring and the LEDs, an object affixedto the motorized assembly and containing insertion points, wherein theobject radiates or transmits light from the LEDs and wherein the objectand motorized assembly rotate about an axis, a second conductive plateelectrically connected to the motor shaft and the LEDs, and a pluralityof extension elements containing a first end and a second end, whereinthe first end is secured to the secure points of the enclosed motorizedassembly and wherein the extension elements radiate or transmit lightfrom the LEDs.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a handheld customizablelight-up device consistent with the description herein.

FIG. 2 is a first bottom perspective view of the handheld customizablelight-up device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a second bottom perspective view of the handheld customizablelight-up device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a first partial top perspective view of the handheldcustomizable light-up device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a second partial front view of the handheld customizablelight-up device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a third partial perspective view of the handheld customizablelight-up device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 is a partial side view of the handheld customizable light-updevice of FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 is a partial side view of the handheld customizable light-updevice of FIG. 1.

FIG. 9 is a partial rear view of the handheld customizable light-updevice of FIG. 1.

FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment of a handheld customizable light-updevice with a stand assembly consistent with the description herein.

FIG. 11 illustrates an embodiment of a handheld customizable light-updevice with a projection device consistent with the description herein.

FIG. 12 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a handheldcustomizable light-up device consistent with the description herein.

FIG. 13 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a handheldcustomizable light-up device consistent with the description herein.

FIG. 14 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a customizablelight-up device in the form of a ball consistent with the descriptionherein.

FIG. 15 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a handheldcustomizable light-up device in the form of a yo-yo consistent with thedescription herein.

FIG. 16 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a handheldcustomizable light-up device in the form of a diabolo consistent withthe description herein.

FIG. 17 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a wearablecustomizable light-up device consistent with the description herein.

FIG. 18 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a wearablecustomizable light-up device consistent with the description herein.

FIG. 19 illustrates an exploded view of the handheld customizablelight-up device with a slip clutch system.

FIG. 20 illustrates a front, cross-section view of the housing,motorized assembly and object of the handheld customizable light-updevice.

FIG. 21 illustrates a side, perspective cross-section view of the motor,first and second bushings and base of the motorized assembly of thehandheld customizable light-up device.

FIG. 22 illustrates a front, open view of the handheld customizablelight-up device without the motorized assembly.

FIG. 23 illustrates a side perspective, cross section view of thehandheld customizable light-up device without the first conductiveplate.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1-9 illustrate one embodiment of a handheld customizable light-updevice 10. More specifically, FIGS. 1-3 illustrate the device 10 in itsentirety, including both a housing 12 that may function as a handle orgrip for a user and an upper portion 2 affixed to the housing 12. FIGS.4-9 illustrate the top portion 20 in greater detail. The housing 12 maybe constructed of multiple pieces that are affixed together, for exampleby one or more screws. The housing 12 may additionally include auser-actuated control 13 that functions as an on/off switch for thedevice 10. Although illustrated as a button in FIGS. 1-3, this is notintended to be limiting, as the user-actuated control 13 may in the formof a button, slide, toggle switch, or any other mechanically actuatabledevice capable of activating or deactivating the device 10. Theuser-activated control 13 may be coupled with circuitry (notillustrated) disposed within the housing 12, and when the user-actuatedcontrol 13 is activated or deactivated by a user, this circuitry isclosed or opened. Such circuitry may also connect the power source (notillustrated), such as a battery, located within a closable power sourcecompartment 19 with the user-actuated control 13, a motor (notillustrated) contained within a motorized assembly 17, and one or morelight emitting diodes (LEDs). The one or more LEDs may include amulticolor LED, red LED, green LED, blue LED, yellow LED, purple LED,white LED, IR LED, UV LED, or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the user-actuated control 13 may be capable ofchanging an illumination pattern of the one or more LEDs. Such a patternof illumination may include, but is not limited to, a constant staticcolor, a color that fades from a first color to a second color, a colorthat abruptly changes from a first color to a second color, multicolor,a blinking pattern, or a dimming pattern. In addition to, or in placethereof, the user-actuated control 13 may be replaced with a software orsignal controlled switch that is controlled by an internal controllerand circuitry (described in detail herein) of the housing 12 and whichmay be communicatively activated by a remote device. The switch or othercircuit may also incorporate activation through embedded instructionsand or receipt of activation signals received by a communication device26 and included electronics and circuitry. For example, thecommunication device 26 may include a receiver for receiving signals,which may activate the illumination features of the device. The switchor other circuit may further incorporate proximity detection devices,such as for example RFID or other types of electronics, which senseslocation, proximity or other wireless instructions, which would indicateor instruct illumination.

Although not shown in the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-9,in some embodiments the housing may be constructed of a transparent orsemi-transparent material; and the housing 12 may, in some instances,contain one or more LEDs capable of illuminating the housing.

The upper portion 20 of the device 10, illustrated in detail in FIGS.4-9, may include a motorized assembly 17 that may be configured torotate about an axis that runs vertically through the center of thehousing 12. The motorized assembly 17 may contain within it one or moreLEDs (not illustrated) configured to illuminate the upper portion 20 ofthe device 10. Affixed to the motorized assembly may be an object 18that is capable of radiating or transmitting light, or otherwise beingilluminated. In some embodiments, the object 18 may be glass,plexiglass, acrylic, resin, or a combination thereof. As illustrated inthe embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1-9, the object 18 is in the shape ofa diamond; however, this is not intended to be limiting as any number ofother shapes may be utilized.

In other embodiments the object 18 may be in the shape of: a star;crystal; sphere; rod; staff; blade; disk; wand; multi-sided polyhedron;geometric shape; triangle; quadrilateral; pentagon; hexagon; septagon;octagon; or polygon of any number of sides. In still other embodiments,the object may be in other commonly recognizable forms, including butnot limited to: a character; caricature, celebrity; logo; symbol;rocket; airplane; car; animal; bug; alien; boat; vehicle; submarine;plant; rock; rock formation; body part; machine; sword; shield; knife;gun; pistol; toy; toy shield; doll; figurine; helicopter; rocket; quadcopter; jewelry; sports balls and equipment; wheels; skateboard wheels;snowboard; yo-yo; spinning top; fan; and/or Frisbee.

The motorized assembly 17 and the object 18 may each contain one or morerelease coupling mechanisms 15 _(1-n) configured to electrically couplewith one or more an extension elements 16 _(1-n). Release couplingmechanisms 15 _(1-n) may include a cavity into which the extensionelement 16 is be inserted. Within the cavity, the release couplingmechanism 15 may include a release coupling mate, which is capable ofmaking an electrical connection between the release coupling mechanism15 and an end of the extension element 16, and as such the extensionelement may contain one or more wires for the electrical connection. Insome embodiments, the extension element(s) 16 _(1-n) may include one ormore LEDs, so that the extension element(s) 16 _(1-n) may beilluminated. The one or more LEDs may be a multicolor LED, red LED,green LED, blue LED, yellow LED, purple LED, white LED, IR LED, UV LED,or any combination thereof. In other embodiments, the extensionelement(s) 16 _(1-n) may be a length of light pipe; in still otherembodiments, the extension element(s) 16 _(1-n) may be a length ofoptical fiber material. Each extension element 16 may have a first end22 and a second end 24. In some embodiments, the first end 22 and/orsecond 24 ends of the extension element 16 may be configured to becoupled with a release coupling mechanism 15 that includes a releasecoupling mate capable of making an electrical connection; while in otherembodiments, the first end 22 and/or second 24 ends of the extensionelement 16 may be configured to be coupled with a release couplingmechanism 15 with a terminating element (i.e. no electrical connectionbeyond that point); however, a release coupling mate may be opticallyconnected with such a terminating element through the extension element16. In some embodiments, the release coupling mate of the releasemechanism 15 may be capable of transmitting light through the extensionelement 16. Furthermore, in some embodiments, a first extension element16 _(1-n) may be capable to interconnecting with a second extensionelement 16 _(1-n).

When the device 10 is activated by a user through the user-actuatedcontrol 13 the circuitry disposed within housing 12 is closed, resultingin the power source providing power the motorized assembly 17. Oncepowered, the motorized assembly 17, object 18, and any extension element16 _(1-n) coupled thereto may rotate about an axis that runs verticallythrough the center of the housing 12. In some embodiments, the speed ofthe rotation may vary depending on the amount of power provided by thepower source, which in some instances may be controlled by a user.Additionally, activation of the user-actuated control 13 may also resultin powering the one or more LEDs within the device 10 becomeilluminated.

In some embodiments, extension element(s) 16 _(1-n) may be constructedof a flexible of semi-flexible material; while in other embodiments, theextension element 16 _(1-n) may be constructed of a rigid material. Thelength of the extension element(s) 16 _(1-n) may vary. In someembodiments, the extension element(s) 16 _(1-n) may additionally includea diffuser and/or diffusing material. In some embodiments, the extensionelement(s) 16 _(1-n) may include a frosted portion, or may be entirelyfrosted; in contrast, in other embodiments, the extension element(s) 16_(1-n) may include a translucent portion, or may be entirelytranslucent. In some embodiments, the extension element(s) 16 _(1-n) mayadditionally be constructed of a reflective material. In otherembodiments, the extension element(s) 16 _(1-n) may have a roughexterior surface.

In some embodiments, the device 10 may further include a communicationdevice 26, which may include a communication transmitter/receiverdevice; a control device; a power source; a controlling, executing, oroperating software application that may be utilized to control oroperate a control device or communication transmitter/receiver device;an LED light; a switch or a sensor; and/or circuitry to control an LEDlight. The communication device 26 may, if present, receive or transmitvarious electronic signals, such as GPS, Wi-Fi, satellite, radio wave,Bluetooth, RFID, sonar, proximity detections signals, audio, sonic,vibration, light, sound, and/or infrared. The communication device 26may be located within, or attached to, the housing 12 of the device 10,or in some instances, the communication device 26 may be in otherpositions embedded within the device 10. Additionally, a remote controldevice may be utilized and remote from the device 10, the control devicebeing, in some implementations, a remote control, computer, tablet,smart phone, other smart device, sound device, public address (PA)system, audio system, amplifier system, or one or more speakers. Wherepresent, the remote control device, which may be defined as anelectronic device used to wirelessly control another electronic device,may include a button or other signal that when initiated may send asignal to the communication device 26. For example, the communicationdevice 26 may receive instructions for a specialized illuminationsequence when instructed or when proximity to a particular location isdetected. Alternatively, complete illumination instructions may betransmitted by a remote controlling device and received by communicationdevice 26 based upon the device's location, time of day, or otherrequirements and/or characteristics.

In some embodiments, the device 10 may also include a speaker, otheraudio device, or a vibrating device. In some embodiments, the device 10may further include an additional switch, sensor, and/or sensingelement, and this additional switch, sensor, and/or sensing element mayprovide a signal with each rotation or partial rotation of the motorizedassembly 17 about an axis that runs vertically through the center of thehousing 12. In such instances, a sound, voice, vibration, and/or patternof illumination may be synchronized with this signal. In someembodiments, the additional switch, sensor, and/or sensing element mayincorporate activation through embedded instructions and or receipt ofactivation signals received by the housing 12 and included circuitry.For example, the housing 12 may include a receiver for receiving signalswhich may activate the illumination features of the device. The switchor other circuit may further incorporate proximity detection devices,such as for example RFID or other types of electronics which senseslocation, proximity or other wireless instructions which would indicateor instruct illumination. Such device may include instructions andcircuitry operable to detect location in respect to a transmittedbeacon. For example, the device may automatically activate upon nearinga display, feature, attraction or other location within an amusementpark which is transmitting a unique beacon which, when received by thedevice, causes the device to illuminate in a predetermined manner. Otherautomated instructions may further be implemented such as emittingcolors, playing predefined audio stored in memory of the device orreceived by the receiver of the device, playing signals, which arestreamed and received by the integrated receiver, and similarfunctionality.

For example, the device may include a proximity detection which includesa Bluetooth beacon receiver. Upon receipt of a unique beacon signal, thedevice may be programmed by instructions stored in memory to activate ina particular manner and/or play specific pre-recorded or streamed audiosignals. Alternatively, the device may incorporate RFID detectorswherein the device, upon recognition of a specific RFID signal, beginsemitting a predetermined sequence of signals. Other implementations maybe implemented such as GPS location detection and determination.

As described herein, the upper portion 20 of the customizable light-updevice 10 rotates, which can be dangerous for users, specificallychildren. To ensure that the upper portion stops rotating when a usertouches it, the inventors discovered a novel slip-clutch system. Thissystem stops the rotating of the upper portion of the device while themotor continues to run. Advantageously, the electrical connections ofthe device are maintained even when the top portion stops rotating. Theuser thereby advantageously enjoys the other electrical features of thedevice, such as the illumination of LEDs located thereon even when thetop portion stops rotating.

As shown in FIGS. 19, 20 and 23, the slip clutch system includes a firstand second bushing 130, 132, a slip ring 134 and a first and secondflexible electrically conductive metal plate 136, 138. Although the slipclutch system is only shown in combination with the handheldcustomizable light-up device, it is to be understood that it isoperational with all other embodiments disclosed herein.

As shown in FIGS. 19-21 and 23, the motorized assembly 17 is enclosedand includes a base 129 and a cover 131 that connects thereto. Thehousing 12 includes a motor 135 with a shaft 137 extending therefrominto the motorized assembly. This shaft extends through hollow centersof the connected first and second bushings 130, 132 of the slip clutchsystem. The bushings are shaped such that they are mirrored counterpartsof one another so, when connected, they form a single, uniform piece, asshown in FIGS. 20-22 and 23. The first and second bushings are securedaround the motor shaft with the second bushing secured above the firstbushing. The bushings combine to form one piece around the shaft and actas one piece with the shaft thereby rotating together. In otherembodiments, only one or no bushings are utilized. For instance, if themotor shaft is made of a conductive material, the bushings aresuperfluous, and the first conductive plate is connected directly to themotor shaft.

As shown in FIGS. 19-20 and 23, the base 129 of the motorized assembly17 has a region 140 that extends downward over the outside of both thebushings, thereby surrounding them. The extending region is therebysecured in place around the bushings by upper 143 and lower edges 142 ofsaid bushings 130, 132. The extending region squeezes the bushings, sowhen the device is operating normally and the top portion 20 isrotating, the extending region and the motorized assembly rotate at thesame rate as the bushings and the shaft 137 of the motor. However, whena user stops the rotating of the upper portion of the device, theextending region slips thereby gripping the bushings less tightly. Thebushings and the shaft continue to rotate, while the upper portion slipsand stops rotating. Essentially the motor, motor shaft with the bushingscontinue to rotate while the extending region of the motorized assemblyslips and stops rotating. Advantageously, the motor keeps the sameacceleration and speed and limits the maximum toque applied to themotorized assembly. This has the added benefit of protecting the motorfrom overheating when a user stalls or stops the upper portion of thedevice.

The inventors also discovered a novel way to maintain all the electricalconnections of the device 10 even when the upper portion 20 stopsrotating. The device contains numerous LEDs 144 located therein, whetherit be within the housing 12 on the upper portion of the device. Evenwhen the device stops rotating, the user enjoys the illuminatingfeatures of the device. As shown in 19-20 and 22-23, the slip clutchsystem further includes a slip ring 134 and a first and secondelectrically conductive plate 136, 138. These conductive plates arepreferably flexible and made of metal. The slip ring is connected aroundthe first bushing 130 in the housing 12 and is secured tightly theretoso the slip ring rotates at the same speed as the bushing and does notrotate independently thereof. The slip ring is made of any conductivematerial, preferably metal and connects to the bushing for instance viaa slip fit method. The slip ring further works in combination with thefirst conductive metal plate. The first metal plate is secured to aninner surface of the housing, for instance via screws and alwaysmaintains an electrical connection with the slip ring, whether thedevice is rotating or not. Wiring 144 runs from a battery located withinthe housing, preferably a positive terminal of the battery, and connectsto the first conductive plate, for instance via soldering, for instanceto a bottom portion of the plate. The first conductive plate is inconstant connection with the slip ring. As shown in FIG. 23, a secondwire 153 is attached to the slip ring, for instance via soldering andadditionally electrically connects to a printed circuit board of an LEDstructure 146 secured within the motorized assembly 17. Since the slipring is fixed to the motor shaft 137 and the LED structure is screwed ontop of this shaft, the printed circuit board and the slip ring alwaysmove as one piece, so the wiring does not get tangled. Accordingly, evenwhen the device stops rotating, the LEDs in the housing and themotorized assembly remain illuminated due in part to power supplied fromthe slip ring and the first metal plate.

The second metal plate 138 performs in a similar fashion as the firstmetal plate 136 and maintains the electrical connection between thepower source and the LEDs 144 located within the device. As shown inFIGS. 19-20 and 22-23, the second plate is connected to the LEDstructure 146 that is secured within the motorized assembly 17. This LEDstructure preferably includes a printed circuit board to which the LEDsare secured and electrically connected. To maintain the electricalconnection of these LEDs when the motorized assembly stops rotating, thesecond metal plate is secured to the LED structure, preferably a bottomsurface thereof, and maintains an electrical connection with the metalmotor shaft. Wiring 145 runs from a battery located within the housing,preferably from a negative terminal of the battery, through the hollowmotor shaft to which it is internally connected and connects the secondplate, for example, via soldering. The second plate maintains a constantconnection with the motor shaft so when the motorized assembly stopsrotating, the second plate still maintains an electrical connection toilluminate the LEDs in the motorized assembly and the housing.

It is to be understood that the description of technology herein, is notlimited to the handheld device 10 described with reference to FIG. 1-9.Other embodiments may be recognized to one of skill in the art. Forexample, FIGS. 10-18 illustrate various additional embodiments of thetechnology described herein.

FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment of a standing device 30, similar tothe device 10 described herein with reference to FIGS. 1-9, with aplurality of legs 32 _(1-n) and a stand assembly 34 from which the legs32 _(1-n) extend. Similar to the device 10 previously described, thestanding device 30 includes a housing 36, which may additionally includea user-actuated control (not illustrated in FIG. 10), a motorizedassembly, and one or more LEDs configured to illuminate at least aportion of the device 10. Affixed to the motorized assembly may be anobject 38 that is capable of radiating or transmitting light, orotherwise being illuminated. Although not illustrated in FIG. 10, thisembodiment may also include one or more extension elements previouslydescribed.

FIG. 11 illustrates an embodiment of a projection device 40, similar tothe device 10 described herein with reference to FIGS. 1-9, but alsoincluding a projection assembly 44. The projection assembly 44 is anoptical device that is capable of projecting an image, or a movingimage, onto a surface. In some embodiments, the projection assembly 44may create this image(s) by shining a light through a small transparentlens 46; while in other embodiments, a laser may be used to project theimage(s). Although the projection assembly 44 is illustrated in FIG. 11as projecting from an end of the device 40, this is not to be understoodas limiting, as the projection assembly 44 may be disposed in additionallocations within the device 40, and may project out other locations, forexample a side of the device 40. Similar to the device 10 previouslydescribed, the projection device 40 includes a housing 48, which mayadditionally include a user-actuated control (not illustrated in FIG.11), a motorized assembly 50, and one or more LEDs configured toilluminate at least a portion of the device. Affixed to the motorizedassembly may be an object 52 that is capable of radiating ortransmitting light, or otherwise being illuminated. Although notillustrated in FIG. 11, this embodiment may also include one or moreextension elements previously described. Finally, FIG. 11 additionallyillustrates a power source compartment 49 containing within it batteries47 capable of powering the device.

FIG. 12 illustrates an embodiment of a handheld customizable light-upsword device 60, similar to the device 10 described herein withreference to FIGS. 1-9. Whereas the object 18 of the embodimentillustrated in FIG. 1-9 is in the shape of a diamond, the object 68 ofthe embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12 is in the form of a sword. Similarto the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-9, the sword device 60 includesa housing 62, with a user-actuated control 63, a motorized assembly 67,and one or more extension elements 66 _(1-n). Also similar to theembodiment described with reference to FIGS. 1-9, the user-activatedcontrol 63 may be coupled with circuitry (not illustrated) disposedwithin the housing 62, such that when the user-actuated control 63 isactivated or deactivated this circuitry is closed or opened. Suchcircuitry may connect to the power source, a motor (not illustrated)contained within the motorized assembly 67, and one or more lightemitting diodes (LEDs) configured to illuminate at least a portion ofthe device 60.

FIG. 13 illustrates an embodiment of a handheld customizable light-uptoy gun device 70, similar to the device 10 described herein withreference to FIGS. 1-9. In such an embodiment, the toy gun device 70includes a housing 72 and a side portion 79, which may be analogous tothe upper portion 20 of the device 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1-9. Thehousing 72 may function as a grip for a user. Included in the housing 72may a user-actuated control 73 that functions as an on/off switch forthe device 70. In some embodiments, the user-actuated control 73 may bein the form a trigger, such that when depressed by a user, the device 70is activated. The device 70 may also include a motorized assembly 77 andone or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) included within the motorizedassembly. The side portion 79 of the device 70 may include the motorizedassembly 77, which may be configured to rotate about an axis that runshorizontally through the center of the housing 72. The motorizedassembly 77 may contain within it one or more LEDs (not illustrated).Affixed to the motorized assembly 77 may be an object 78 that is capableof radiating or transmitting light, or otherwise being illuminated. Asdetailed previously, in some embodiments, the object 78 may be glass,plexiglass, acrylic, resin, or a combination thereof. The object 78 maycontain one or more release coupling mechanisms 75 _(1-n) configured toelectrically couple with one or more an extension elements 76 _(1-n).Release coupling mechanisms 75 _(1-n) include a cavity into which anextension element 76 may be inserted. Within the cavity, the releasecoupling mechanism 75 may include a release coupling mate which iscapable of making an electrical connection between the release couplingmechanism 75 and an end extension element 76; and, as such the extensionelement 75 may contain one or more wires facilitating this electricalconnection. In some embodiments, the extension element(s) 76 _(1-n) mayadditionally include one or more LEDs capable of illuminating theextension element(s) 76 _(1-n).

FIG. 14 illustrates an embodiment where the device 80 in the form of aball. In such an embodiment, the housing 82 and the motorized assembly87 may each be semi-spheroid, such that a complete spheroid is formedwhen the housing 82 and motorized assembly 87 are connected. In thisembodiment, when a user throws the ball device 80 the motorized assembly87, and any extension element(s) 86 attached thereto, may move in anopposite direction to the direction in which the ball device 80 ismoved.

FIG. 15 illustrates an embodiment where the device 90 is in the form ofa yo-yo toy. In such an embodiment, there may be two housings 92, eachfunctioning as one side of the yo-yo. In some instances, these housings92 may be constructed of a translucent material, so as to allow theinterior contents to be visible to a user. Contained within each of thehousings 92 may be an object 98, similar to the object 18 described inreference to FIGS. 1-9. A single motorized assembly 97 may, in thisembodiment, couple with each of a pair of objects 98 contained withinthe housings 92. Similar to other embodiments described herein, theobject 98 may further include one or more release coupling mechanisms 95_(1-n) configured to electrically couple with one or more an extensionelements 96 _(1-n). The objects 98 may be capable of radiating ortransmitting light, or otherwise being illuminated. In some embodiments,the extension element(s) 96 _(1-n) may additionally include one or moreLEDs capable of illuminating the extension element(s) 96 _(1-n).

In other embodiments, the components described herein may take the formof a diabolo device 100, such as illustrated in FIG. 16. Similar to ayo-yo, a diabolo is a juggling or circus prop consisting of an axle orbobbin and two cups. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 16, thediabolo may include two cups 102, 104, at least two objects 108 _(1-n),similar to the object 18 described in reference to FIGS. 1-9, andmotorized assembly 107 coupling the objects 108 _(1-n) and the cups 102,104. Similar to other embodiments described herein, the objects 108_(1-n) may further include one or more release coupling mechanisms 105_(1-n) configured to electrically couple with one or more an extensionelements 106 _(1-n).

In other embodiments, the components described herein may be utilized asa part of various fashion accessories including, but not limited tojewelry (e.g. bracelets, necklaces, and/or the like), such asillustrated in FIG. 17, or a hairpiece, such as illustrated in FIG. 18.In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 17, extension elements 116 _(1-n),assembly 117, and release coupling mechanism(s) 115 _(1-n). are createdsuch that the connection of an extension element(s) 116 to the motorizedassembly 117 to create a wearable device 110. In the embodimentillustrated in FIG. 18, the extension element(s) 126 _(1-n), assembly127, and release coupling mechanism(s) 125 _(1-n) are created such thatthe connection of the extension element(s) 126 _(1-n), to the assembly127 and/or release coupling mechanism(s) 125 _(1-n) may be worn in,connected to, or affixed to a user's hair, thus creating a hair piece120.

While several inventive embodiments have been described and illustratedherein, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily envision avariety of other means and/or structures for performing the functionand/or obtaining the results and/or one or more of the advantagesdescribed herein, and each of such variations and/or modifications isdeemed to be within the scope of the inventive embodiments describedherein. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciatethat all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations describedherein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters,dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon thespecific application or applications for which the inventive teachingsis/are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able toascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalentsto the specific inventive embodiments described herein. It is,therefore, to be understood that the foregoing embodiments are presentedby way of example only and that inventive embodiments may be practicedotherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Inventiveembodiments of the present disclosure are directed to each individualfeature, system, article, material, kit, and/or method described herein.In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems,articles, materials, kits, and/or methods, if such features, systems,articles, materials, kits, and/or methods are not mutually inconsistent,is included within the inventive scope of the present disclosure.

All definitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood tocontrol over dictionary definitions, definitions in documentsincorporated by reference, and/or ordinary meanings of the definedterms.

The indefinite articles “a” and “an,” as used herein in thespecification, unless clearly indicated to the contrary, should beunderstood to mean “at least one.

The phrase “and/or,” as used herein in the specification, should beunderstood to mean “either or both” of the elements so conjoined, i.e.,elements that are conjunctively present in some cases and disjunctivelypresent in other cases. Multiple elements listed with “and/or” should beconstrued in the same fashion, i.e., “one or more” of the elements soconjoined. Other elements may optionally be present other than theelements specifically identified by the “and/or” clause, whether relatedor unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as anon-limiting example, a reference to “A and/or B”, when used inconjunction with open-ended language such as “comprising” can refer, inone embodiment, to A only (optionally including elements other than B);in another embodiment, to B only (optionally including elements otherthan A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionallyincluding other elements); etc.

As used herein in the specification, “or” should be understood to havethe same meaning as “and/or” as defined above. For example, whenseparating items in a list, “or” or “and/or” shall be interpreted asbeing inclusive, i.e., the inclusion of at least one, but also includingmore than one, of a number or list of elements, and, optionally,additional unlisted items. Only terms clearly indicated to the contrary,such as “only one of” or “exactly one of,” or, when used in the claims,“consisting of,” will refer to the inclusion of exactly one element of anumber or list of elements. In general, the term “or” as used hereinshall only be interpreted as indicating exclusive alternatives (i.e.“one or the other but not both”) when preceded by terms of exclusivity,such as “either,” “one of,” “only one of,” or “exactly one of.”

As used herein in the specification, the phrase “at least one,” inreference to a list of one or more elements, should be understood tomean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elementsin the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one ofeach and every element specifically listed within the list of elementsand not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements.This definition also allows that elements may optionally be presentother than the elements specifically identified within the list ofelements to which the phrase “at least one” refers, whether related orunrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as anon-limiting example, “at least one of A and B” (or, equivalently, “atleast one of A or B,” or, equivalently “at least one of A and/or B”) canrefer, in one embodiment, to at least one, optionally including morethan one, A, with no B present (and optionally including elements otherthan B); in another embodiment, to at least one, optionally includingmore than one, B, with no A present (and optionally including elementsother than A); in yet another embodiment, to at least one, optionallyincluding more than one, A, and at least one, optionally including morethan one, B (and optionally including other elements); etc.

In the specification above, all transitional phrases such as“comprising,” “including,” “carrying,” “having,” “containing,”“involving,” “holding,” “composed of,” and the like are to be understoodto be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to. Only thetransitional phrases “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of”shall be closed or semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively, asset forth in the United States Patent Office Manual of Patent ExaminingProcedures, Section 2111.03.

The invention claimed is:
 1. An apparatus comprising: a housingcontaining a motor electrically connected to a power source; an enclosedmotorized assembly connected to the housing and containing secure pointslocated in an outer surface thereof and LEDs therein; a slip ringsecured around a motor shaft of the motor; a first conductive plateelectrically connected to the slip ring and the LEDs; an object affixedto the motorized assembly and containing insertion points, wherein theobject radiates or transmits light from the LEDs and wherein the objectand motorized assembly rotate about an axis; a second conductive plateelectrically connected to the motor shaft and the LEDs; and a pluralityof extension elements comprising a first end and a second end, whereinthe first end is secured to the secure points of the enclosed motorizedassembly and wherein the extension elements radiate or transmit lightfrom the LEDs.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the housing furthercontains LEDs.
 3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least one of theplurality of extension elements includes a length of a light pipe and/ora length of a fiber optic material.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1, whereinthe slip ring is further secured around a bushing, which bushing issecured around the motor shaft.
 5. The apparatus of claim 1 furthercomprising a user-actuated control operable to adjust power provided bythe power source.
 6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the user-actuatedcontrol is a software or signal controlled switch controlled by aninternal controller.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprisingcircuitry enclosed within the housing, which circuitry is electricallyconnected to the power source, motor and the LEDs, wherein the circuitrysignals and lights one or more of the LEDs and/or signals and engagesthe motor to rotate the object and the motorized assembly.
 8. Theapparatus of claim 7, wherein the circuitry is communicatively activatedby a remote device.
 9. The apparatus of claim 7, further comprising acommunication device enclosed within the housing, wherein thecommunication device includes a receiver and a proximity detector; andwherein the circuitry is operable to respond based on a signal receivedby the receiver or a location detected by the proximity detector.
 10. Anapparatus comprising: a housing containing a motor electricallyconnected to a power source; an enclosed motorized assembly connected tothe housing and containing secure points located in an outer surfacethereof and LEDs therein; a slip ring secured around a motor shaft ofthe motor; a first conductive plate electrically connected to the slipring and the LEDs; an object affixed to the motorized assembly andcontaining insertion points, wherein the object radiates or transmitslight from the LEDs and wherein the object and motorized assembly rotateabout an axis; a second conductive plate electrically connected to themotor shaft and the LEDs; and a plurality of extension elementscomprising a first and second end, wherein the first end is secured tothe secure points of the motorized assembly and the second end isinserted into one of the insertion points in the object; wherein theplurality of extension elements are configured to radiate or transmitlight from the LEDs.
 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the housingfurther contains LEDs.
 12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the firstconductive plate is further electrically connected to the LEDs of thehousing.
 13. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the slip ring is furthersecured around a bushing, which bushing is secured around the motorshaft.
 14. The apparatus of claim 10, further comprising circuitryenclosed within the housing, which circuitry is electrically connectedto the power source, motor and the LEDs, wherein the circuitry signalsand lights one or more of the LEDs and/or signals and engages the motorto rotate the object and the motorized assembly.
 15. The apparatus ofclaim 14, wherein the circuitry is communicatively activated by a remotedevice.
 16. The apparatus of claim 14, further comprising acommunication device enclosed within the housing, wherein thecommunication device includes a receiver and a proximity detector; andwherein the circuitry is operable to respond based on a signal receivedby the receiver or a location detected by the proximity detector.
 17. Anapparatus comprising: a housing containing a motor electricallyconnected to a power source; an enclosed motorized assembly connected tothe housing and containing secure points located in an outer surfacethereof and LEDs therein; a slip ring secured around a motor shaft ofthe motor; a first conductive plate electrically connected to the slipring and the LEDs; an object affixed to the motorized assembly andcontaining insertion points, wherein the object radiates or transmitslight from the LEDs and wherein the object and motorized assembly rotateabout an axis; a second conductive plate electrically connected to themotor shaft and the LEDs; a plurality of extension elements comprising afirst and second end, wherein the first end is secured to the securepoints of the enclosed motorized assembly and the second end is insertedinto one of the insertion points in the object; wherein the plurality ofextension elements are configured to radiate or transmit light from theLEDs; and a communication device enclosed within the housing, whereinthe communication device comprises a receiver and a proximity detector.18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the housing further containsLEDs.
 19. The apparatus of claim 18, further comprising circuitryenclosed within the housing, which circuitry is electrically connectedto the power source, motor and the LEDs contained in the apparatus,wherein the circuitry signals and lights one or more of the LEDscontained in the apparatus and/or signals and engages the motor torotate the object and the motorized assembly.
 20. The apparatus of claim19, wherein the circuitry is operable to respond based on a signalreceived by the receiver or a location detected by the proximitydetector.